Spring is upon us, dear readers, and whether you’re looking for something strappy or sleek, platform or perfectly flat, bold or basic, the new season is an excellent excuse to replenish your shoe closet. After all, there’s something truly transformative about getting a fresh pair of sandals—nothing else imparts that “winter is over” feeling in quite the same way! There are scads of scrumptious shoes right now that are not only au courrant but affordable as well. For your viewing and shopping pleasure, we’ve gathered a few choice selections that hit upon some of the season’s biggest shoe trends: animal exotics, brights, and gladiators.
Animal Exotics
MICHAEL Michael Kors Logo Plate Thong ($108.95)
These snakeskin embossed leather sandals are a great neutral shoe option for spring and summer. The simple shape is nicely complimented by the subtle stud details.
($158.95)
Warm days and nights call for equal hot shoes, like these slingback sandals from MaxStudio. The unexpected lines of the crisscross straps are lovely and unusual.
Pour la Victoire Brie Sandal ($179.95)
As seen in today’s Who What Wear TV episode, these lizard embossed leather sandals are very in keeping with the season’s modern safari runway trends. The curved heel on this pair is particularly interesting, and they go so well with some ‘empire-chic’ as we call it, in the shape of a pair of Oliver Peoples sunglasses.
Brights
BCBGirls Panthea Sandal ($88.95)
Vibrantly bright accessories are a major spring trend, so these bright orange leather sandals are a must buy. The twist detail is gorgeous too!
Marc by Marc Jacobs 683984 Slide ($455)
Who could resist the lemon-yellow patent leather of these Marc by Marc Jacobs retro slides? If the cheerful color wasn’t enough, they also have a comfortable stacked heel.
Dolce Vita Adelle Sandal ($69.95)
The offerings from Dolce Vita are always fashion-forward and adorable, like these simple and beautifully bright thongs in magenta patent leather. They would add the perfect pop of color to a neutral outfit.
Gladiators
Joan & David Ninive Sandal ($154.95)
This season is all about gladiators, but that doesn’t mean you need to wear an extreme version. These understated sandals in bronze snake are an excellent way to dip into the trend.
Chie Mihara Gladiator Sandal ($395)
If you’d like a bolder version of the gladiator trend, try these platform sandals from the star Spanish shoe brand Chie Mihara. They’re a surprisingly versatile addition to any wardrobe, thanks to nude and black color palette.
Enzo Angiolini Tells Sandal ($88.95)
Our final selection is a more traditional multi-strap gladiator sandal in dark brown leather. These sandals have a classic shape and shade, so you’ll surely wear them for years to come.